Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri finally got one over Pep Guardiola. After twice taking them close last season in the Champions League with Napoli and losing the Community Shield earlier this year, Sarri’s team beat Guardiola’s men in their first Premier League match-up. Moreover, match-up is exactly what they did. Both teams went in with a 4-3-3 formation and, more interestingly, neither team started an out an out striker. Manchester City went in with a fluid front three of Leroy Sane, Riyad Mahrez and Raheem Sterling while Chelsea, on the other hand, played a fixed forward line, spearheaded by Eden Hazard playing as the false number nine; Pedro and Willian started on the wings. It is notable that Hazard as the front man was very isolated and struggled to get into the game. However, his team won the game. Chelsea may now chose to play with a false nine for upcoming games, but at what cost?
How Chelsea need to Adapt to Suit The False Nine
Hazards Impact
Despite being on the outside of an intriguing game, Hazard still managed to affect it and be the game changer. It was his shimmy to the side when faced with three Sky Blue defenders that created the space to pick out N’Golo Kante for Chelsea’s first goal.
In the first half, though, he was out of the game; not involved; living off less than scraps – very similarly to how Antonio Conte used him against City last season.
Hazard is never going to win headers against Aymeric Laporte or John Stones. Neither is he going to hold the ball up as Olivier Giroud might.
When chasing down long balls it can be extremely frustrating for a player, but Hazard didn’t cut the same frustrated figure that he did last season. He believed in Sarri’s tactics.
Hazard relies on darting movements to evade defenders; to move into ‘no mans land’ for a defender; to draw them out and then spin in behind. This is what a false nine should do. Nevertheless, it is very hard to do so when the team is under such immense strain at the back.
In the second half, Chelsea were freer. They had the wind in their sails and showed confidence to fight fire with fire. Hazard came alive, toiling with the City midfield and creating havoc.
Although Chelsea lacked much threat, they were infinitely more comfortable.
What Chelsea Lose With Hazard as a False Nine
Eden Hazard is one of the best wingers in the world. Playing him out of position means Chelsea will lose some of his greatest traits.
His ability to come in and out of games at will, for example. To startle the opponents, luring them into a false sense of security before pouncing; springing into life. As a false nine, Hazard will be more watched than usual. This takes away his surprise. He might struggle to pop up into spaces that players don’t even notice like he so often does.
Chelsea also lose the physical presence that they have relied on and built their club upon, so often playing with a bully of a striker – someone who instils fear into defences with their mountainous bodies or with crazy on-field antics. Chelsea’s strikers have so often been unorthodox.
In games such as the weekend against City, Chelsea will miss a big man winning aerial battles without a doubt, but Hazard has his own hold-up play.
What Chelsea Gain From Hazard in a False Nine
Hazard doesn’t provide a physical presence. His whereabouts are felt by his ball skills. Defenders are not afraid of the confrontation with Hazard, but of his nimble feet and his deft touches; the panic of having a player run at them at such a great pace; of having milliseconds to decide whether to tackle. Hazard is ahead of the game, past them or drawing the foul.
The Belgian’s immaculate first touch and supreme upper body strength, along with a low centre of mass, allow him to protect the ball. Defenders can’t touch him. This is how Sarri likes to play football. He is using Hazard to bring Chelsea into the 21st century.
Despite not adding to his seven goals this season, Hazard tops the assists list and also total goal contributions. He brings more than goals. He brings the intricate build-up play, the weaving runs and threaded balls. His finishing has also massively improved. He is well on his way to beating his best tally for a league season. Hazard is backing up the beautiful painting like scenes he draws with the numbers to prove it. Goals win games.
How Chelsea Need to Adapt to Suit the False Nine
If Chelsea are to stick with this system then they have the players and the coach to make the most of it.
Under Conte, Chelsea played a fluid front three away at Leicester and came away with a 3-0 win: a scintillating performance of immense improvisation and understanding.
Chelsea could do with having Willian, Pedro and Hudson-Odoi learn the centre forward role in this system. Not only to get the most out of Hazard but also to mix it up. Shake things about and remain proactive.
Chelsea also have Ruben Loftus-Cheek, who has played as a right-winger in some of his matches this season. Not only does this decrease his defensive duties but also it frees up the Englishman to drive forward. If Chelsea find themselves in need of a winger up front, Loftus-Cheek is a more than adequate replacement winger.
Utilise Giroud
This is a work in progress. Chelsea have spent less than two games in total with this system but the fact Sarri chose to only pick one striker on the bench on Saturday shows his impatience. Alvaro Morata’s time in England looks to be numbered.
Olivier Giroud is still a very useful player to have around the squad. His experience, knack of scoring goals, strength in hold-up play and his understanding with Hazard are all vital. He can’t play a full 90 minutes but here and there Giroud has a lot to offer Chelsea this season.
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